Last edited 09/30/2021
Valarie L. McKennaLMHC
LMHC
Accepting New Clients
Get To Know Me
What are some the unique issues faced by clients in your particular field of specialization, in terms of mental health education, care, and/or treatment?
For client with untreated trauma, something as simple as going to the store can seem impossible. When a person's nervous system is overwhelmed, every situation feels dangerous. Therefore, a client with post trauma stress or generalized anxiety will need to invest sufficient time in self care and implementing tools for calming the nervous system while challenging unhelpful thinking patterns.
How do you determine therapy goals with clients? What does that process look like?
Initially, a good treatment plan will focus on helping a client improve daily functioning by resolving the most debilitating symptoms that result from trauma, such as: panic, agoraphobia, excessive worry and fear, poor sleep, restlessness, anger, shame, and guilt. Since PTSD and generalized anxiety are mind/body disorders, I will teach you skills for calming the nervous system and evaluating and changing thought patterns that contribute to your distress.
Are there any recurring themes or issues you’ve noticed as you treat people in your area of specialization, and how has this insight guided your approach?
I have discovered that people with childhood trauma often report low self esteem, chronic pain, personality/identity issues, relational and financial concerns, and unhealthy boundaries. Typically these issues will also be addressed during the course of trauma treatment.
Learn more about my:
Specialties
Specializes in
AnxietyBorderline Personality DisorderPanic attacks & panic disorderPost-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)Spirituality & religion based issues
General Expertise
DepressionRelationship IssuesLoss/GriefSelf-EsteemSocial AnxietyAbuse/Survivors of abuseCommunication issuesDomestic violenceIdentity developmentMood disordersParenting issuesPerformance anxietyPersonality disordersPhobias & fearsPhysical wellnessSelf HarmSuicidal ideationTraumaWomen's issuesCoping Skills
Treatment Approaches
Mindfulness PracticesArt TherapyPerson-Centered TherapyNarrative TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Motivational InterviewingMindfulness-Based Cognitive TherapySolution-Focused Brief TherapyCoachingIntegrative TherapyPsychodynamic Therapy
Clientele
Types of Therapy
Individual Therapy
Serves Ages
Young Adults (18-24)
Languages
English
Professional Background
LicensureWashington, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, 60779128
Training/CertificationsCETA Certification (2020); Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (16 hrs, 2019); Annual NW Conference on BH and Addictive Disorders (18 hrs, 2018); Motivational Interviewing (6 hrs, 2018); COD & Treatment (12 hrs; 2018); Mind-Body Medicine (27.75 hrs, 2017); Clinical Resources for Rural Practice (5 hrs, 2017); CBT and Mindfulness (6 hrs, 2016); Critical Incident Stress Management for Individuals and Groups (27 hrs, 2012)
Education
Masters in Clinical Mental Health, Regent University
Work HistoryOver the last 7 years, I have been helping people who are seeking relief from severe and persistent anxiety and depression. Typically, these conditions manifest from untreated trauma that continues to haunt clients despite their best efforts to "get over it".
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s not uncommon to have questions before starting therapy.
Valarie L. McKenna, LMHC, has answered a few of the questions they receive most often from new clients.
Is Valarie McKenna accepting new clients?
Yes, Valarie McKenna is accepting new clients.
Does Valarie McKenna accept insurance?
No, Valarie McKenna does not accept insurance.
What types of therapy does Valarie McKenna offer?
Valarie McKenna offers therapy for individuals.
Does Valarie McKenna offer in-person appointments?
No, but people in Washington can book Valarie McKenna for virtual appointments (teletherapy).
Does Valarie McKenna offer online therapy?
Yes, Valarie McKenna offers online therapy to people in Washington.
How quickly can I see Valarie McKenna?
Valarie McKenna typically can speak with new clients within 48 hours. You can see their current general office hours and request an appointment on their profile page.
What languages does Valarie McKenna speak?
Valarie McKenna conducts therapy sessions in English.
Can I book an appointment with Valarie McKenna online?
Yes, you can easily book an appointment with Valarie McKenna online using Choosing Therapy’s directory.
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